======Fractional Distillation of Crude Oil======


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**Alternative titles:** Distilling Petroleum Mixtures
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====Summary====                   
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====Procedure====  
  -Gather a distillation setup (heat source, round-bottom flask, fractionating column, thermometer at the vapor takeoff, condenser, receiver), crude oil sample, balance, graduated cylinders or pipets, timers, and data sheets.
  -Measure and record the crude oil volume placed in the distillation flask; weigh the crude-filled flask to determine the crude mass and calculate the crude density.
  -Assemble the apparatus securely with clamps; ensure the thermometer bulb sits at the level of the side arm so it reads vapor temperature, not liquid temperature.
  -Begin gentle heating to produce a steady distillation drip rate; keep the column insulated if available so separation improves.
  -Collect the first fraction over a defined temperature window; record start and end temperatures for the cut and label the receiver with the fraction number.
  -Increase heat gradually to obtain subsequent fractions, defining each by its boiling range; avoid overheating or bumping and maintain a moderate distillation rate.
  -Continue until no more distillate is obtained or the maximum target temperature is reached; allow heavy residue to cool before handling.



====Links==== 
The Distillation of Crude Oil - Science Skool: 
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Crude Oil Distillation: A Billion-Dollar Lab Experiment - Wheeler Scientific: 
{{youtube>9VPXH3XBoto?}}\\

📄 Oil Distillation - Jim Lokken: [[https://www.tsfx.edu.au/resources/P_-_Fract_Dist_-_Prince_William_Sound_RCAC_-_Track_2_9-10_-_Oil_distillation.pdf?srsltid=AfmBOopKYZqoGEq-UjJpkMI77di9lPy6B7Ilh9cVpp67fHaucqRjYjgd]]\\

====Variations====
  *Add a proper fractionating column and insulation to compare simple vs fractional distillation performance.
  *Characterize fractions further using simple flammability tests by a trained instructor with micro-quantities in a fume hood.



====Safety Precautions====
  *Wear splash goggles, lab coat, and nitrile gloves; tie back hair and secure loose clothing.
  *Conduct all work in a fume hood or very well ventilated space; crude oil contains volatile, toxic, and odorous compounds including sulfur species.
  *Use an electric heating mantle or regulated hot plate; avoid open flames due to flammable vapors.
  *Verify all joints are secure; use Keck clips and support stands to prevent collapse or tipping.
  *Keep the distillation rate moderate to prevent flooding of the column and bumping; use boiling chips unless using a spinning band or similar system that prohibits them.
  *Ensure cooling water flows before heating; check that the condenser outlet is directed into a secured receiver.
  *Do not distill to complete dryness; leave residue to avoid overheating heavy ends that can decompose.
  *Label and cap all collected fractions promptly; keep away from ignition sources.
  *Dispose of crude residues and fractions as hazardous waste according to local regulations; never pour hydrocarbons down the drain.




====Questions to Consider====
  *What condition must be met for two substances to be separated by fractional distillation? (They must have different boiling points under the same pressure.)
  *How does molecular size generally relate to volatility in petroleum fractions? (Lower molecular weight fractions are more volatile and boil at lower temperatures.)
  *How can heavy gas oils be converted into gasoline-range products industrially? (By cracking and reforming, often with catalysts and sometimes with hydrogen, to make smaller, higher-octane molecules.)
  *What observations might indicate sulfur compounds in a crude or fraction? (Pungent or rotten-egg odors, darker color, heavier character; analytical tests would confirm.)